Republican operatives say Romney and the other candidates stand to benefit politically from the Cain distraction. But Michigan Republicans fear they’ll lose an opportunity to highlight their state’s economic problems.

All eight Republican candidates have agreed on one thing: They all opposed the government loans to General Motors and Chrysler. Both automakers ended up filing for bankruptcy protection.

The debate will take place before a live audience of Oakland University students and invited guests. The debate will air on CNBC. Stay tuned as WWJ covers the debate throughout the evening.